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Offered languages
- English
Balboa Park is one of San Diego’s most iconic destinations, but with more than 1,200 acres of museums, gardens, and historic architecture, it can be overwhelming to explore on your own. This guided walking tour brings the park to life through engaging stories, context, and carefully chosen highlights.
Now in our 10th year, we’re proud to be one of the longest-running tour operators in the park. Your guide explains not just what you’re seeing, but why it’s there—unpacking the symbolism of the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, introducing the people behind the park’s creation, and pointing out details many visitors miss.
The tour blends iconic sights with quieter corners, moves at a relaxed pace, and allows time for photos, questions, & conversation. Partway through, enjoy a casual beverage stop, giving you a chance to rest & recharge before continuing your walk.
-Experience Balboa Park’s highlights
-Architecture, history & hidden details explained
-Includes beverage stop
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meeting address for FOUNDER’S PLAZA at west entrance to park is approximate. If 698 EL PRADO doesn’t appear on your map or app, use SEFTON PLAZA. Look for 3 statues on only sloped corner at Balboa Dr & El Prado. If driving, allow extra time to park & pay. Ride Share drivers may drop at wrong statue.
Itinerary
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1Balboa Park
Balboa Park is the cultural jewel of San Diego with architecture, gardens and cultural organizations a-plenty. Keep a camera handy as there are Instagramable spots around every corner.
50 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
We'll pause on our walk across the bridge to admire the views of downtown, the San Diego Zoo and the historic highway below.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
The California Tower is a landmark not only for the park but for San Diego as well. The nearly 200 foot tall tower was built for the 1915 Panama California Exposition, and the story of San Diego’s founding in it’s ornate facade. We’ll get three great views of the tower, each one prettier than the next.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
Originally developed for the 1915 Exposition, this garden was redesigned for the 1935 Exposition off the Alcazar Gardens in Seville Spain
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
The three theaters in this complex have wowed audiences since the original construction for the California Pacific International Exposition in 1935. Your guide will give you the scoop on getting tickets when shows are in production.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
This plaza is surrounded by cultural organizations and places to eat. We'll provide all the details you need to know for further exploration after the tour.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
This building was the largest of its kind when built for the 1915 Exposition, and one of four buildings constructed to last past the festivities. In front of it is a historic pond where we will spot koi and other wildlife.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8
This colorful collection of cottages, built for the 1935 California Pacific International Exposition, house 37 studios and many more artists. You'll have a chance to explore this unique village, and grab a beverage too!
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
9
Planted for the 1915 Exposition, this magnificent tree has seen a lot in the century since, and we'll get up close and personal thanks to a new viewing platform.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
10
Named for the founder of the Committee of One Hundred, this fountain attracts children, dogs and birds, plus also has a surprising feature that is activated by the Fleet Center next door.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
11
The home of many cultural and botanical organizations, this building also holds the secrets of how the detailed architecture of the park was created quick and cheap.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
12
The main area of the 1915 Exposition, the ornate buildings hold an interesting history, and some surprising architectural details.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Let us know in advance if you would like an audio system.
- Please wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Paid Parking at Balboa Park is now in effect. Please contact us if you need information about costs and options.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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